Name: Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless, skin-on preferred); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe uses one pan and basic ingredients, making cleanup minimal and cooking stress-free. Chicken thighs stay moist and tender, even with high-heat cooking, and absorb seasoning beautifully. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with almost any side, from vegetables to rice or potatoes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bone-in or boneless chicken thighs
olive oil
salt
black pepper
garlic powder
paprika
onion powder
dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Directions

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and spices.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet and cook without moving until the skin is crispy and golden.
Flip the chicken thighs and reduce heat to medium.
Continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through and reaches a safe internal temperature.
Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is about 5 minutes.
Cooking time is 20 to 25 minutes.
Total time is approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

You can add minced garlic or sliced onions to the skillet for extra flavor. A splash of chicken broth or lemon juice can be added at the end for a light pan sauce. Swap the seasoning blend with Cajun spices, smoked paprika, or a herb-and-lemon mix for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs work well and cook slightly faster.

Do I need to remove the skin?

No, keeping the skin helps create a crispy texture and adds flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The juices should run clear and the internal temperature should be fully cooked.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but cooking time will vary and breasts may dry out more easily.

What skillet works best?

A cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet gives the best browning.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe contains no dairy as written.

Why isn’t my chicken crispy?

The skillet may not have been hot enough, or the chicken may have been too wet.

Can I add vegetables to the pan?

Yes, vegetables like green beans or bell peppers can be added near the end.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats well for several days.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

Easy skillet chicken thighs are a reliable, flavorful meal that proves simple cooking can still be delicious. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and endless seasoning options, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.